A Chance For Sharrif Floyd To Shine

Aug 9, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (95) looks on during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

With the injury to Vikings DT Kevin Williams, it appears as though rookie Sharrif Floyd will see the field much sooner than expected.  The Vikings are struggling for depth after Christian Ballard took leave from the team and has not yet returned.  Floyd was scheduled to be eased into play, allowing him to develop at a slower pace and learn from Williams, but plans always change.

Sep 23, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) is tackled by Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams (93) during the second quarter at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

This is a huge opportunity for Floyd to show all those teams that passed on him that they made a huge mistake.  The physically imposing DT will have to fill in until former five-time All-Pro Kevin Williams can return from the low block that he took during the game against the San Francisco 49ers in the third preseason game.

Certainly, the Vikings are hoping that Floyd can fill the hole left by Williams.  They are facing a Detroit Lions offense that is explosive with new addition Reggie Bush and receiving freak Calvin Johnson.

Aug 9, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd (95) is blocked by Houston Texans guard Cody White (67) during the second quarter at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Whether or not Floyd succeeds against the Detroit Lions, this game will be an important step in building the future of the team.  Floyd was expected to be a very early draft pick who slid due to teams worries about his arm length and ability to transition his game to the NFL.  He’ll be playing hungry to prove the other teams wrong that decided not to draft him.